Type 2 Diabetes: Everything you need to know to understand, manage, and live better.

The type 2 diabetes mellitus It is one of the most prevalent chronic diseases in the world today, affecting millions of people on every continent. Although it is primarily associated with older adults, more and more young people are developing this condition due to factors related to modern lifestyles.

Although it may seem like a complex disease, with the right knowledge and care, it is possible to keep it under control and lead a healthy life. In this article, we explore in depth the causes, symptoms, and most effective treatments for type 2 diabetes, and provide you with practical tips to improve your quality of life if you are dealing with this condition.

What is type 2 diabetes mellitus?

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disorder characterized by high blood glucose levels due to the body's inability to properly utilize insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas. This insulin is essential for glucose to enter cells and be converted into energy. In type 2 diabetes, either because the body doesn't produce enough insulin or because cells have become resistant to its action, sugar accumulates in the bloodstream, which can cause serious complications if not treated properly.

Causes and risk factors of type 2 diabetes

Although the exact cause of type 2 diabetes is not fully understood, a combination of genetic and environmental factors increases the risk of developing the disease. Major risk factors include:

1. Insulin resistance

In type 2 diabetes, the main problem lies in insulin resistance. This means that the body's cells, especially those in the liver, muscles, and fat, don't respond adequately to insulin. As a result, the pancreas must produce more insulin to try to keep glucose levels under control, but over time, this compensatory mechanism fails.

2. Obesity and overweight

Excess weight, particularly abdominal fat, is one of the most important risk factors. This extra fat generates inflammatory compounds that can interfere with the body's ability to respond to insulin, contributing to insulin resistance.

3. Genetic factors and family history

Having close relatives with type 2 diabetes significantly increases the risk of developing it. Although it's not a guarantee that someone will develop the disease, genetics play an important role, as it affects the body's ability to manage glucose.

4. Physical inactivity

A sedentary lifestyle is a key risk factor. Regular physical activity not only helps with weight control but also improves insulin sensitivity, which means cells can use insulin more effectively.

5. Unhealthy diet

A diet high in sugars, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats can overload the body's metabolic system, increasing the risk of insulin resistance. Diets lacking in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and lean protein are often associated with a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

6. Aging

The risk of developing type 2 diabetes increases with age, especially after age 45. However, the incidence in young adults is increasing due to lifestyle changes, such as an increased sedentary lifestyle and poor diet.

7. Hormonal factors and pre-existing health conditions

Some conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol levels, are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. Additionally, high levels of the stress hormone cortisol can also worsen insulin resistance.

Type 2 Diabetes Symptoms: Signs You Shouldn't Ignore

The symptoms of type 2 diabetes often appear gradually, so many people don't realize they have it until the disease is already advanced. Here are the most common symptoms you should be aware of:

1. Increased thirst (Polydipsia)

Excess glucose in the blood can cause the kidneys to work harder to eliminate it. This causes dehydration and, as a result, increased thirst.

2. Frequent urination (Polyuria)

As the kidneys try to filter excess sugar from the blood, more urine than usual is produced. People with diabetes often experience the need to urinate more often, especially at night.

3. Constant fatigue

Fatigue is another common symptom of type 2 diabetes, as the body's cells are unable to properly utilize glucose and are unable to receive the energy they need.

4. Blurred vision

High blood sugar levels can damage the small blood vessels in the eyes, causing blurred vision. If left unchecked, this can lead to more serious problems, such as diabetic retinopathy.

5. Unexplained weight loss

In some cases, people with type 2 diabetes experience unexplained weight loss, as the body begins to burn fat and muscle due to a lack of energy from glucose.

6. Wounds that take time to heal

Diabetes affects the body's ability to heal wounds, so minor cuts and scrapes can take a long time to heal.

7. Frequent infections

The immune system is compromised in people with diabetes, making them more prone to recurrent infections, especially skin and urinary tract infections.

Type 2 Diabetes Treatment: Options for Effective Control

Type 2 diabetes has no cure, but it can be controlled with an appropriate treatment plan that includes lifestyle changes, medications, and, in some cases, insulin. The most common treatments are:

1. Lifestyle changes

One of the most important aspects of managing type 2 diabetes is changing eating habits and increasing physical activity. The following are recommended:

• Balanced dietEating fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables, fresh fruits, and whole grains, helps keep glucose levels under control. It's also essential to reduce your intake of simple carbohydrates, refined sugars, and trans fats.
• Regular exerciseIt's recommended to do at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. This can include walking, swimming, cycling, or resistance training.

2. Medications

In some cases, lifestyle changes are not enough, and oral or injectable medications are required. The most common include:

• Metformin: Helps reduce glucose production in the liver and improves the body's sensitivity to insulin.
• SGLT2 inhibitorsThese medications help the kidneys eliminate excess glucose through urine.

3. Insulin

Although insulin is most commonly associated with type 1 diabetes, many people with advanced type 2 diabetes also require insulin to control their glucose levels.

4. Regular monitoring

It is essential to regularly monitor blood glucose levels to adjust treatment when necessary and avoid complications.

5. Stress management

Stress can worsen diabetes symptoms. Incorporating relaxation techniques, such as yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises, can help control glucose levels.

Conclusion: Type 2 diabetes under control

Living with type 2 diabetes requires a constant commitment to self-care, but with the right tools, it's possible to lead a full and healthy life. Maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, following medical instructions, and managing stress are fundamental pillars for avoiding long-term complications. Prevention and early detection play a key role in the effective management of this disease.